Iconic Men's Hairstyles

Instantly Elevate Your Look With One Of These Iconic Hairstyles

A man’s haircut makes a statement, often a much louder one than originally intended. What evolution provided us with in the form of protection from the elements has come to signify nearly everything we want known — or would rather keep hidden — about ourselves. A natty new volume from Phaidon, The Barber Book, is the most comprehensive and stylish treatise yet on everything related to our hair and how we wear it.

Iconic Men's Hairstyles

Phaidon

“Long or short, pomaded or natural, even left bald — hair is a crucial social and cultural indicator, an instant visual cue of role and gender,” the introduction notes. “Hair is a form of cultural shorthand, which, once deciphered, can spell out entire sentences and stories.” Featuring chapters on each seminal style, the book breaks down its origins, best known adopters, and even what to wear along with it.

We brought in Whitney VerMeer, a cosmetologist trained in barbering and men's grooming for Baxter of California — the supercool, old school barbershop and grooming brand — to comment on nine of the most iconic hairstyles from the book so you can see how you measure up.

The Crew Cut

Getty Images / PYMCA / UIG

“Who doesn’t love a good crew cut? This style is probably one of my favorites. To keep this style looking more modern and less military, fade the sides high and tight and add texture to the top. Finishing this look with Baxter of California's Clay Pomade to define the texture will make this look less rigid.” — Whitney VerMeer

The Undercut

Matteo Guarnaccia

“In the 1940’s the undercut was a clean, dapper look. Today, the style still remains current and has evolved to have so many more variations. Nowadays, we are seeing a lot more contrast between the top and bottom of this haircut with various levels of connection/disconnection.” — Whitney VerMee

The Mohawk

Getty Images / sspl / Manchester Daily Express

“This is a style that stands the test of time! Even though we don’t see a lot of mohawks today, people who have it deserve a lot of respect due to the high level of maintenance it requires.” — Whitney VerMeer

The Slick-Back (aka The Bogie)

Getty Images / Popperfoto

“Of course to be able to pull off this look, having a strong hairline is a must. I love doing different variations of this haircut and finishing it off with [Baxter of California’s] Hard Water Pomade.” — Whitney VerMeer

The Mad Men (aka The Don Draper)

Corbis Images / revolution / Phil Ramey / RameyPix

“Once Mad Men aired, every man wanted this haircut. It has been fun to see this classic look done in various styles. I love to add a carved part to take the precision of this groomed look to the next level.” — Whitney VerMeer

The Rockabilly (aka The King)

The Untamed Beard

Getty Images / FilmMagic / Kirstin Sinclair

“Let’s face it, beards are in! I like when the beard is not overly groomed, however if you are just growing a neckbeard, it’s time to shave. I know every guy wants to have a beard at some point in his life, but don’t force it.” — Whitney VerMeer